philosophy of law, the formulation of concepts and theories to aid in understanding the nature of law, the sources of its authority, and its role in society. In English-speaking countries the term jurisprudence is often used synonymously and is invariably used in reference to particular subdivisions of the field.

To the extent that it implies some necessary link or coincidence with general philosophy, the phrase philosophy of law may be somewhat misleading, for philosophy of law is mostly untouched by the conflicts of different philosophical schools, and its practitioners may without incongruity draw on diverse philosophical outlooks without commitment in any ... (100 of 10,303 words)